Onam is a traditional harvest festival celebrated in the Indian state of Kerala. It usually falls in the Malayalam month of Chingam, which corresponds to August-September in the Gregorian calendar.
This year (2023), festivities begins on 20 August and the main Onam festival will be celebrated on 31 August.
Onam festival lasts for around ten days and is marked by various cultural events, feasting, and colorful decorations.
The most iconic aspect of Onam is the elaborate flower carpet known as “pookkalam,” which is made using various colorful flowers arranged in intricate patterns at the entrance of homes. Another highlight is the traditional dance form called “Thiruvathira Kali,” where women perform in a circle to rhythmic music.
Feasting is a significant part of Onam, with the grand Onasadya (feast) being prepared on the main day of Thiru Onam. It consists of numerous vegetarian dishes served on a banana leaf, symbolizing the unity and diversity of the people of Kerala.
Onam also includes boat races, known as “Vallam Kali,” where beautifully decorated traditional boats compete in various water bodies. The most famous among these is the Nehru Trophy Boat Race held in Alappuzha.
The festival commemorates the legendary King Mahabali, who was known for his generosity and kindness. According to the legend, he visits Kerala during Onam to ensure the well-being of his subjects.
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